on going commando

The origin of the term "going commando" may connect to the tradition in military units of Scottish heritage to not wear underwear under their kilts. The first Commando units were raised and trained in Scotland in WW2.

Slate's Daniel Engber dates the modern usage to 1974 college campuses, where it was perhaps an outgrowth of the Vietnam War. The origins of the phrase are uncertain, with some speculating that it may refer to being "out in the open" or "ready for action."

Many people go commando strictly for comfort, feeling that underwear is unnecessarily restrictive and tight, or just preferring greater mobility for the genitalia. However, in many cases there is a recognisable sexual element to the behavior.

Benefits:
Going without underwear is said to have certain benefits. Dr. Caroline F. Pukall of Queens University states that going without underwear while sleeping can have significant benefits to the vulva. It is also said that tight underwear decreases sperm count in men, and it is recommended to wear more loose fitting clothing around the genitals. These articles do confirm the belief that underwear can cause significant problems, which reaffirms the views of those who practice going commando.

Going commando appears to be an increasingly popular practice. A 2004 study of 7,000 people by the New York-based clothier Freshpair revealed that 9% of men and 7% of women go commando day-to-day. Those who do so semiregularly are much more numerous, possibly around 25-30%, and most people have tried it at some point.

_______________

¿should we go commando?